The Lady Lena
The Lady Lena
5
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About
The Lady Lena is a beautiful, majestic, electric Victorian River launch available for exclusive private hire cruises on the tranquil Kennet and Avon canal in Bath. This is a family owned business , who are also the crew, so have in-depth knowledge of the canal and the boat's own story having rescued her from becoming a bonfire in 1980. She is fitted out to provide you with every comfort , fully carpeted, cushioned, where you can sit back with your glass of complimentary champagne on arrival and either enjoy the peace or listen to the stories of her restoration or the tales of life on the canals. The family have first hand knowledge as the captain's father helped save the canals in the first place. You can also order homemade cream teas, a speciality of the boat, where you have a choice of 5 different loose leaf teas to accompany this, 2 made by local businesses. The journeys can range from 2 hrs to 5 hrs and you have a choice of pick up places, either in Bath or at Bathampton,.
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5.0
218 reviews
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218
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moviestarCardiff
Cardiff28 contributions
Apr 2021
Many thanks to Helen and Jenks for a great trip aboard your lovely boat.
We can thoroughly recommend this. We met up with other members of our family for the first time since Covid in a totally safe environment . Parking is at the George pub if you board at Bathampton which is a very short walk to the mooring. We all arrived early so just got straight on with our trip which could not have worked out better. We were greeted with a glass of champagne or a soft drink. Helen was very informative with her narrative without being at all intrusive. We brought our own picnic and followed it with one of Helen's lovely cream teas.
The scenery is stunning and the boat just glides along. We had an age range of 8 to 88 and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. Thoroughly recommended.
We can thoroughly recommend this. We met up with other members of our family for the first time since Covid in a totally safe environment . Parking is at the George pub if you board at Bathampton which is a very short walk to the mooring. We all arrived early so just got straight on with our trip which could not have worked out better. We were greeted with a glass of champagne or a soft drink. Helen was very informative with her narrative without being at all intrusive. We brought our own picnic and followed it with one of Helen's lovely cream teas.
The scenery is stunning and the boat just glides along. We had an age range of 8 to 88 and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. Thoroughly recommended.
Written 26 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for taking the time to review us in this glowing way. We are enjoying getting back into the flow again, and love it when our joy of the boat and canal transfers to our customers.
Written 5 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Padge222
7 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
A joyous occasion onboard this majestic electric powered boat. We so enjoyed cruising silently through the water listening to the sounds of nature and Helen's educational snippets on the history of the Kennet & Avon Canal. Thank you Jenks and Helen for helping to make this occasion truly special, and for going above-and-beyond to help those unsteady on their feet board Lady Lena with grace and ease. We would love to do this again, and thoroughly recommend to anyone wanting to experience a romantic/relaxing/cultural trip out of Bath and into the surround countryside, which is as beautiful as the Lady Lena is herself. Thank you Jenks & Helen. See you again!
Written 10 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Oh what an enthusiastic review! Thank you so much. Now we feel as royal as we hope we make our customers feel. We would love to see you back again.
Written 22 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andriksen
Norway40 contributions
Aug 2023
WOW. Just WOW!
If you want an amazing, relaxing and enlightening experience, this is it!! Lower your shoulders, let the sun shine and just enjoy a lovely afternoon on the canal while you admire the landscape, the boats and the tranquility, as Lady Lena and her crew takes you along the Avon and Kennet canals.
From the beautiful Lady Lena, quiet and pretty sailing on the canal, to the charming captain Jenks making sure we got safely from start to stop, and lovely Ali, who told us everything about the boat and the canals all while serving us delicious bubbles and cream tea. And of course, Mrs Knills heavenly scones. Never tasted better (and would love the recipe!)
We boarded Lady Lena in Bathampton, where it was easy to park the car, and was met with a warm welcome from Ali and Jenks even if we were a few minutes late. Once we had boarded the boat, we were served Prosecco and Elderflower. Then we could just sit back and enjoy the scenery, the peace and quiet, and the sun. It was really a once in a lifetime- experience!!
Later on we were served delicious cream tea, before we departed in Bath, just a short stroll along the canal to Bath city centre.
Later in the afternoon we took a taxi back to Bathampton (around £10) to go pick up the car.
We spent 2 weeks in England, a family of 4 with kids aged 12 and 16, and we all agreed that the trip with Lady Lena was the absolute highlight of our holiday.
A big thanks to Jenks and Ali for making this such a memorable day for us! And an extra thanks to Mrs Knill, for the best scones ever!
If you want an amazing, relaxing and enlightening experience, this is it!! Lower your shoulders, let the sun shine and just enjoy a lovely afternoon on the canal while you admire the landscape, the boats and the tranquility, as Lady Lena and her crew takes you along the Avon and Kennet canals.
From the beautiful Lady Lena, quiet and pretty sailing on the canal, to the charming captain Jenks making sure we got safely from start to stop, and lovely Ali, who told us everything about the boat and the canals all while serving us delicious bubbles and cream tea. And of course, Mrs Knills heavenly scones. Never tasted better (and would love the recipe!)
We boarded Lady Lena in Bathampton, where it was easy to park the car, and was met with a warm welcome from Ali and Jenks even if we were a few minutes late. Once we had boarded the boat, we were served Prosecco and Elderflower. Then we could just sit back and enjoy the scenery, the peace and quiet, and the sun. It was really a once in a lifetime- experience!!
Later on we were served delicious cream tea, before we departed in Bath, just a short stroll along the canal to Bath city centre.
Later in the afternoon we took a taxi back to Bathampton (around £10) to go pick up the car.
We spent 2 weeks in England, a family of 4 with kids aged 12 and 16, and we all agreed that the trip with Lady Lena was the absolute highlight of our holiday.
A big thanks to Jenks and Ali for making this such a memorable day for us! And an extra thanks to Mrs Knill, for the best scones ever!
Written 18 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A-Wey
England27 contributions
May 2022 • Family
What a beautiful and special trip this was for my 40th birthday! The Lady Lena is a gorgeous boat with even more gorgeous owners! Helen and Jenks were the perfect captain and host duo, with the warmest welcome and brilliant stories and info to tell us. Our three generations had the best 2 hours cruising down the canal with the most gorgeous cream tea, champagne and a even a beautiful birthday card painted by the talented Helen herself.
Thank you Helen and Jenks, we couldn’t have had a better time and will definitely be returning.
Anna and family
Thank you Helen and Jenks, we couldn’t have had a better time and will definitely be returning.
Anna and family
Written 8 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for this truly impressive review. You were a delightful family party and it was such fun trying to make sure you had the best time.
Written 28 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PhantomSnapper
York, UK36 contributions
Nov 2021 • Couples
We spent 2 lovely hours on a birthday boat trip for two with Helen and Jenks whilst on a mini break in Bath. The boat is beautiful and it is comfortable and silent as it glides through the stunning Kennet and Avon canal. We set off at Bath at a pretty location between 2 white bridges in a little park by the Holbourne Museum, only 10 mins walk from Pulteney Bridge. During the trip we managed to grab Helen for a while and she was so knowledgable about the area and the history of their boat, the oldest working electric boat in existence! The ghost stories added a little drama to the trip!! The scones were perfect, light and fluffy, the fizz was a perfect accompaniment, and the tea was hot and tasty (it WAS Yorkshire Tea after all). If you’re looking for something to add a special touch to a celebration or special occasion then you might want to check out a cruise on the Lady Lena. Jenks is charming and is the perfect captain and Helen will ensure you are comfortable, there are even blankets and hot water bottles for the colder months. All in all, it was a special part of our stay in this beautiful city. Thanks you two. We look forward to seeing the Lady Lena on the waters again next time we visit Bath. We will give you a wave!! Chris and Rebecca.
Written 5 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a great review and so clearly described. we love sharing our stories and anecdotes about the canal and the boat, she does have quite an amazing history, a real survivor. Glad you liked the tea!
Written 19 April 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lisa
8 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
We booked the Lady Lena Boat Cruise for a family birthday celebration during our stay in Bath. Jenks and Helen were friendly and accommodating, and provided us with a welcoming glass of champagne and interesting facts and stories along the canal cruise. We complemented the relaxing and comfortable boat ride with some cake and extra bubbles. Overall, we would definitely recommend the experience for anyone visiting Bath or planning something special.
Written 11 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for reviewing us, we really appreciate it when people have enjoyed our trip enough to recommend it to others .Plus the cake was very nice as well!
Written 22 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paddington’s travels
Greenwich, UK91 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
Fabulous two hour trip up and down the canal with Jenks and Helen on the Lady Lena. We went as a group of six friends and opted for the cream tea, would definitely recommend as it made the trip even more special and Helen had baked the scones that morning. We loved listening to Helen’s stories of the canal and the history of the Lady Lena. Couldn’t recommend enough, such a beautiful end to our mini break. We had tried to book a couple of times before but there had never been availability - if you’re doing a trip to Bath then enquire in advance to get it booked in! Thank you again.
Written 27 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susie M
Tynemouth, UK22 contributions
Jun 2023 • Friends
Such a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours on the lovely Lady Lena, a beautiful Victorian River Launch.
Our day began as we met one of our hosts - Jenks “the Skipper” who arrived on time to collect my friend Jean and I from the Bath mooring. His friendly patter ensured we were made to feel most welcome, as we climbed on board, settling onto the lovely blue and ivory cushions under the welcome shade from the blue and white stripe canopy.
A few moments later Helen “the best scone baker on the planet” and “Storyteller” to boot, arrived carrying her freshly baked world renowned (!) scones (delicious). Sure winners at the County Fayre !!!
As we set off we were served a few glasses of fizz and listened to Helen as she told us all about interesting places along the way, including some really shivery ghost stories!
As we lulled ourselves into the calm and peace of the lapping water through beautiful countryside, Helen set up the table to perfection with a delicious afternoon cream tea. What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon celebrating my up and coming “big” birthday.
Jenks and Helen are a warm and friendly couple who could not do enough for you. A very memorable and special day indeed. Many thanks to the both of you. And a PS :- thank you for answering all my many questions about canals, mooring and how to use the locks!! Roll on August when I might be able to put them to good use!!
Our day began as we met one of our hosts - Jenks “the Skipper” who arrived on time to collect my friend Jean and I from the Bath mooring. His friendly patter ensured we were made to feel most welcome, as we climbed on board, settling onto the lovely blue and ivory cushions under the welcome shade from the blue and white stripe canopy.
A few moments later Helen “the best scone baker on the planet” and “Storyteller” to boot, arrived carrying her freshly baked world renowned (!) scones (delicious). Sure winners at the County Fayre !!!
As we set off we were served a few glasses of fizz and listened to Helen as she told us all about interesting places along the way, including some really shivery ghost stories!
As we lulled ourselves into the calm and peace of the lapping water through beautiful countryside, Helen set up the table to perfection with a delicious afternoon cream tea. What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon celebrating my up and coming “big” birthday.
Jenks and Helen are a warm and friendly couple who could not do enough for you. A very memorable and special day indeed. Many thanks to the both of you. And a PS :- thank you for answering all my many questions about canals, mooring and how to use the locks!! Roll on August when I might be able to put them to good use!!
Written 6 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dale
Raleigh, NC4 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
We jumped on board the Lady L with no idea what to expect. Janks greeted us with a big smile and hello. Helen welcomed us on board and we were off. The Lady Lena is a beautiful mahogany skinny boat and we got the full story on how she became a working vessel on the Canal. We had the best time. I got to help Janks with the bridge open/close on the return. Helen served up a few great tales about local lore and then fresh scones with cream and jam and a pot of cream tea. yum. If you are thinking about this event for your trip, I would highly recommend doing it.
Oh yeah, and you will make the ducks and swans happy with treats along the way.
5⭐️. A++ experience.
Oh yeah, and you will make the ducks and swans happy with treats along the way.
5⭐️. A++ experience.
Written 6 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
freemanabi
Hertfordshire, UK51 contributions
May 2021
We had an absolutely gorgeous time on the boat.
We got on by the canal where Helen and Jenks met us with such a lovely warm welcome.
The boat glides through the canal in such a relaxing way and Helen told us little bits of history which was so interesting and added to our time. Definitely add on the afternoon tea, the scones were delicious and Helen took some fab pictures of us.
We saw swans with cygnets and a heron.
We were lucky it was sunny for most of the time, but if it even had a short shower the boat is covered over head so we would have been fine.
I thoroughly recommended taking a trip on Jenks & Helen's boat, as a couple, family or friends.
We got on by the canal where Helen and Jenks met us with such a lovely warm welcome.
The boat glides through the canal in such a relaxing way and Helen told us little bits of history which was so interesting and added to our time. Definitely add on the afternoon tea, the scones were delicious and Helen took some fab pictures of us.
We saw swans with cygnets and a heron.
We were lucky it was sunny for most of the time, but if it even had a short shower the boat is covered over head so we would have been fine.
I thoroughly recommended taking a trip on Jenks & Helen's boat, as a couple, family or friends.
Written 6 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your kind review. we enjoy taking people out on our boat as much as you did. It has been especially rewarding at the moment as it is giving people their first taste of freedom in a safe situation. So thank you for taking the time to tell others about it.
Written 15 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi what is the price for 2 adults in April for afternoon tea please
Written 28 February 2024
Hi
Just starting researching "things to do in Bath".
We are 2 couples hoping to visit Bath in June for a short break.
How do we go about booking Lady Lena ?
It would be for a 2 HR trip with afternoon tea leaving and returning from Bath
What would the cost be ?
Is this possible ?
I cannot find a link to a web site ?
Many thanks and kind regards Carol Day
Written 23 January 2024
Hi Carol, thank you for your message.
A 2 hour return cruise from Bath for 4-6 guests is £240 and £8pm for cream teas.
For information please text 07963834828
Thank you.
Jenkyn Knill.
Written 2 February 2024
Hi, I have only just found your message.
Babies below 1yr are allowed but are not included in the number of guests on chartered boats.
Jenks
07963834828
Written 2 February 2024
How do we fo about enquiring and booking a 2 hour boat trip for a group of 10 In September ?
Thanks
Written 20 January 2023
Thank you for your message, please send a text to 07963834828 as TA won’t allow email addresses
Jenks
Written 2 February 2024
me and my girlfriend are going to bath for 3 days do you drop us off at the same place you pick us up from as we have never been and dont know the area 2 hours would be great for 140 if thats the right price and do you serve any other drinks such as beer/ale as me and the misses dont really like wine or champagne thank you are trip will be at the very end of November so looking in to things now
Written 4 September 2020
Hi Billy K, thank you for your kind enquiry.
If the weather is kind then we could do a beer cruise.
Pick up and drop off are at the same location and if it’s from Bath it is £140.
Best regards
Jenks
Written 11 October 2020
What is the cost and boat ride you offer for two people June 1st? Does it offer lunch on board, or is it just scenic? Thank you , Lisa
Written 8 May 2019
Hi Lisa,
Thank you for your kind enquiry.
We can do a 2 hour cruise 11.30-1.30 inc champers.
From Bath BA2 6DH £140 or £120 from Bathampton BA2 6TR
We can do cream teas for £6pp or you are welcome to BYO
Or we can put you in touch with a caterer.
Jenks
Written 9 May 2019
Hi, how many people does this boat cater for we are a group of 11 possibly 12. Thanks
Written 13 June 2018
Hi Chelsey-E., sorry I have only just seen your question.
10 is the max on lady Lena, we do have another boat , "the Sir John Knill" that will seat 12.
Written 29 June 2018
Hi
Looking to book for fathers birthday surprise a two hour cruise , where does it go from in Bathampton please?
Written 30 May 2018
HI looking to book for two people for about an hour for my girlfriends birthday can you tell me the price please
Written 27 July 2019
Rhiannon
Swansea, United Kingdom
We have a party of 9 visiting for a hen party in August & looking for somewhere for quirky afternoon tea. Can you give me a price for tea on the boat please?
Written 10 February 2018
Sorry for the delay in getting back, have only just spotted this. The cream teas are £5.50 at the moment but due to go up to £6.00 at the beginning of April. Bookings made before this date honour the old price.
Written 28 February 2018
how do you contact them?
we are going to bath this weekend for my wife's birthday,
thank you
Written 16 April 2015
either google ladylena or phone 01225834250.
I am not allowed to post websites etc.
Jenks
Written 18 April 2015
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